How to Report Suspected Fraud or Abuse in North Carolina

Reporting an alleged fraud may sometimes result in an arrest.

In most states, consumer issues like fraud and other white collar crimes are handled by the Office of the Attorney General. As of May 2011, the North Carolina Department of Justice, through its Consumer Protection Division, "educates North Carolina consumers and protects them from frauds and scams." North Carolina Department of Justice is headed by the state's attorney general. If you suspect that someone may be committing fraud or abuse, you can report the alleged conduct directly to North Carolina Department of Justice electronically or by mail.

Instructions

1. Gather as much information as possible regarding the alleged fraud or abuse, making sure you pay close attention to the who, what, why, where, when and how questions when collecting this information.

2. Visit the "File a Complaint" page on the North Carolina Department of Justice homepage (ncdoj.gov).

3. Complete the online form as thoroughly as possible by typing directly into the fields provided.

4. Include a scanned copy of any documentary evidence you might have by clicking on the "Choose File" button at the bottom of the page and then double-clicking on the scanned file on your computer.

5. File the complaint electronically or by mail. To submit the complaint electronically, click the "Submit" button. If you would like to file the complaint by mail, select the "Print Page" button. If you are submitting the complaint by mail, you do not need to upload any documentary evidence you might have online. You can simply include copies of the evidence with your completed and printed complaint.

6. Mail the complaint and any evidence you might have to Consumer Protection division of the North Carolina Attorney General's Office (ncdoj.gov; Mail Service Center 9001, Raleigh, NC 27699-9001; 877-566-7226). Upon receipt of your complaint, the Consumer Protection Division will forward the complaint to the suspected party, asking them to respond to the allegation. According to the Consumer Protection Division, "you'll receive copies of all correspondence" and "in cases where consumers' complaints show a pattern of illegal business practices," the agency may pursue legal action.

References

• North Carolina Department of Justice: About DOJ
• North Carolina Department of Justice: File A Complaint

Resources

• North Carolina Department of Justice: File A Complaint
• North Carolina Department of Justice: Consumer Complaint Form